The rediscovery of thiamine deficiency disorders at a secondary level mission hospital in Northeast India

In this article, we report the different presentations of thiamine deficiency disorders seen at a remote rural mission hospital in Northeast India, including investigations, treatment, and recovery. Two case studies, one of an infant with cardiac beriberi and the other of a nonalcoholic adult presenting with peripheral neuropathy, cardiomyopathy, and metabolic acidosis and responding to thiamine supplementation, are described in detail. We share our experience with these clinical entities over the past two decades, including recent research and lessons learned, and suggest ways forward to identify at-risk populations in Northeast India, improve early diagnosis and treatment, and promote preventive public health strategies.

Automated summary

This article reports the different presentations of thiamine deficiency disorders seen at a remote rural mission hospital in Northeast India, as well as the investigations, treatment, and recovery processes. Two detailed case studies are provided, and the authors share their experience and suggest ways forward to improve early diagnosis and treatment, and promote preventive public health strategies for at-risk populations in Northeast India.